Charming lakeside town in central Switzerland
Thun is a historic town in the Bernese Alps. This destination’s charm lies in its heritage and incredible Alpine views. Located in the foothills of the Alps, Thun offers you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the scenery and natural beauty of Switzerland.
Spend a day here and you’ll want to explore the medieval old town. It sits on the banks of the Aare river and features timbered buildings, quaint cobbled streets and public squares. Don’t miss wandering along Obere Hauptgasse street, dotted with shops and restaurants.
You could also walk over to the island in the middle of the river via the Untere Schleuse Brücke, a covered, wooden bridge. Nab a spot on a terrace by the water for a scenic lunch.
One of Thun’s main attractions is its castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the town and the lake. The castle dates back to the 12th century and today you can visit to experience its impressive glory days. You’ll also be rewarded with unparalleled views of the town’s surroundings.
Another great thing about Thun is its location on the shores of Lake Thun. Thunersee, as it’s also known, is a popular destination for those who want to visit an Alpine lake.
Lake Thun stretches for over 17 kilometres (10 miles) between Thun and Interlaken, a name that literally means “between lakes”.
The lake is also surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain peaks, including the famous Mount Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. On windless days, the lake's crystal-clear water reflects the surrounding landscape, creating a dramatic setting that is perfect for photography.
You could go swimming in the lake, try paddleboarding, kayaking or simply enjoy strolling by the waterside.
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